Mouthwatering Mediterranean: A Guide to Mediterranean Food in Singapore
Mediterranean food has earned a reputation as one of the healthiest and most delicious cuisines thanks to its emphasis on using fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and olive oil.
But you don’t have to travel to Europe or the Middle East to enjoy authentic Mediterranean food.
Singapore offers plenty of authentic Mediterranean-inspired restaurants and shops, from falafel food carts to authentic Greek and Turkish restaurants that offer warm dips and bread to satisfy your taste buds.
Walk with us on a gastronomic journey as we discuss the thriving Mediterranean scene in Singapore and show you where to find the best Mediterranean food in Singapore, from authentic restaurants to shops, hawker stalls, and food markets.
History of Mediterranean Culture in Singapore
The history of Mediterranean food in Singapore can be traced back to the early 20th century when a wave of immigrants from various parts of the Mediterranean region, including Greece, Turkey, and Lebanon, arrived on the shores of Singapore. These immigrants brought with them not just their traditions and languages but also their unique culinary heritage.
The establishment of Arab Street in the Kampong Glam district played a pivotal role in shaping Singapore's Mediterranean food scene. This area became a hub for Middle Eastern and Mediterranean communities, leading to the emergence of restaurants and eateries offering authentic dishes from the region, including prized Pitas and hummus platters.
Fast forward to the present, and it’s impossible to walk down the street without encountering at least one Mediterranean-inspired restaurant or hawker stall. The emergence of creative restaurants, like North Miznon, reflects the ongoing fusion of traditional Mediterranean recipes with contemporary culinary trends, creating a unique dining experience that pays homage to the historical roots of Mediterranean cuisine in Singapore.
Popular Types of Mediterranean Food in Singapore
The unique blend of so many cultures allows Singapore to boast a wide mosaic of different Mediterranean foods and traditions. The most popular Mediterranean food in Singapore includes:
Pitas and Flatbreads: The heart of Mediterranean cuisine lies in its bread, and Singapore has embraced this with open arms. Pitas and flatbreads, whether stuffed with succulent meats or served alongside flavorful dips, are a common sight in Singaporean Mediterranean eateries.
Hummus and Dips: Hummus, a creamy blend of chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and spices, is a Mediterranean classic that has found a special place in Singapore's culinary landscape. Paired with freshly baked bread or used as a flavorful dip, hummus is a staple in Mediterranean dining.
Grilled Meats and Seafood: From the fiery grills of the Mediterranean to the bustling kitchens of Singapore, grilled meats and seafood take center stage. Whether it's a perfectly charred kebab or a succulent grilled fish, the marriage of Mediterranean spices and Singaporean culinary finesse creates an unforgettable dining experience.
Falafel and Fritters: Singaporeans have developed a fondness for Mediterranean fritters and falafel. These crispy, golden bites, often made from chickpeas or fava beans, are enjoyed as snacks or as part of a satisfying meal.
The 6 Best Mediterranean Restaurants in Singapore
If you’re looking to indulge in authentic Mediterranean food, you can turn to any number of these amazing restaurants on this list. While there are literally dozens, if not hundreds, of restaurants to choose from in Singapore, we narrowed our list down to five.
North Miznon (Israeli)
Topping the list is North Miznon, a haven for adventurous food enthusiasts seeking the bold and authentic flavors of Mediterranean street food. Founded by Chef Eyal Shani, North Miznon features several locations in cities like New York, Vienna, and Dubai.
This popular spot offers plenty of vegetarian options and fuses many classic Mediterranean and Israeli-inspired dishes, including hummus with prawns, eggplant sashimi, and fresh pici pasta.
Aniba (Middle Eastern Fusion)
Aniba is an upscale establishment that combines a sophisticated menu with a chic and eclectic dining space for a modern take on traditional Middle Eastern food. Inspired by Chef Meir Adoni, Aniba carried signature dishes of the Levant, such as Jerusalem bread with eggplant carpaccio, as well as broiled Middle Eastern cauliflower. Pescetarians will also love dishes that include favorites like grilled sardines and Chilean sea bass.
Shabestan (Persian)
Shabestan is an authentic Persian restaurant that brings the rich flavors of the Middle East to Singapore. Shebestan’s chefs use halal ingredients, including charcoal grilled kebabs and savory appetizer platters filled with all the dips and spreads you love. Choose everything from comforting Dolme to mouthwatering Lamb Shank.
Artichoke (Modern Middle Eastern)
Founded by Bjorn Shen, Artichoke brings a modern twist to Middle Eastern cuisine, offering a diverse range of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, from Mezze platters to savory kebabs. Here, you’ll find a unique medley of flavors and dishes from squid ink couscous to Artichoke’s own unique fried chicken platter made with za’atar honey.
Byblos Grill (Turkish/Lebanese)
Borrowing from the open-air bars and rich fusion of flavors found in this ancient Levantine-coast city, the eponymous Byblos Grill offers those comfort staples we search for in Mediterranean cuisine. Using fresh olives, olive oil, chickpeas, and lentils shipped directly from the Mediterranean, Byblos offers tasty plates and platters like Kibbeh, Hummus, and Tabbouleh.
Artemis Grill & Sky Bar (Traditional Mediterranean)
Named after the Greek goddess of hunting, Artemis Grill and Sky Bar uses fresh ingredients from the region that are designed to suit every palate and dietary restriction. If you’re looking for classics like Moroccan lamb chops, falafel, or burrata, Artemis Grill has it all. Plus, you can enjoy modern takes on traditional dishes with meals, such as the Australian F1 Wagyu “Cote De Boeuf.”
Where to Find Mediterranean Food in Singapore?
Find Mediterranean food in literally every corner of Singapore, from authentic-inspired restaurants to food trucks and hawker stalls. Many supermarket chains and specialty shops offer fresh herbs, vegetables, and olive oil that allow you to make your own dishes at home.
Singapore's Mediterranean food scene is a testament to the city's culinary openness and willingness to embrace diverse flavors. From the sizzling grills to the fragrant aromas of freshly baked pita bread, who knew you could find some of the best Mediterranean-inspired dishes all the way in southeast Asia?
FAQs: Mediterranean Food in Singapore
Are there vegetarian options in Mediterranean restaurants in Singapore?
Absolutely. Mediterranean cuisine offers a plethora of vegetarian options, including falafel, hummus, and a variety of flavorful vegetable-based dishes.
Are there Mediterranean restaurants in Singapore with a contemporary twist?
Certainly, there are several restaurants that offer a unique blend of different Mediterranean cultures and some that also add on modern innovations and Western inspirations to improve their dishes.
Is Mediterranean food healthy?
Yes, Mediterranean food is renowned for its health benefits. The cuisine is associated with a balanced and nutritious diet, often credited for promoting heart health and overall well-being. With a focus on olive oil, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, Mediterranean dishes offer a rich array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Where can I find authentic Mediterranean ingredients in Singapore?
Several specialty stores and supermarkets in Singapore offer a wide range of authentic Mediterranean ingredients. Look for extra virgin olive oil, olives, feta cheese, herbs like oregano and rosemary, and unique spices such as saffron and paprika. Specialty markets and online platforms also provide access to these ingredients to recreate the flavors of the Mediterranean at home.